Word

nostalgia

noun B2

UK /nɒˈstæld͡ʒə/

US /nɑˈstæld͡ʒə/

Meanings

noun

a warm, often bittersweet feeling when thinking about the past

noun

a style, mood, or interest that uses ideas from the past to create a sentimental feeling

Definition

Nostalgia is a warm, sometimes slightly sad feeling when you remember the past.

Nostalgia is a feeling of affection for past times, often connected to childhood, a place, or a special period in your life. It can be pleasant because the memories are comforting, but it may also feel bittersweet because the past is gone. People often feel nostalgia when they hear old music, see photos, or revisit familiar places.

Examples

Hearing that song filled me with nostalgia.
She spoke about her school days with nostalgia.
The photo album brought a wave of nostalgia.
The movie uses nostalgia to recreate the 1990s.
Walking past my old house made me feel nostalgia.

Common mistake

Learners sometimes say "nostalgic" when they need the noun "nostalgia" (e.g., "I feel nostalgia," not "I feel nostalgic").